Absolutely! The return of Formula 1 to the Shanghai International Circuit after a hiatus since 2019 brought excitement and anticipation among drivers as they geared up for full-throttle performances during practice sessions. However, one incident stood out, prompting the FIA to raise the red flag. Esteban Ocon said on the radio: “There is a fire in the grass into Turn 7”
🔴 RED FLAG 🔴
Ocon 📻: “There is a fire in the grass into Turn 7” 🔥
Well, this is unusual! #F1 #ChineseGP pic.twitter.com/LCOoVrgCvc
— Autosport (@autosport) April 19, 2024
Approximately 15 minutes into the first Formula 1 practice session, a trackside fire erupted near Turn 7 of the circuit, catching everyone off guard. The sudden blaze engulfed a patch of grass, necessitating immediate action from officials. With safety as the top priority, the red flags were swiftly waved as marshals worked to extinguish the flames.
The unexpected incident added a dramatic twist to the practice session, leaving behind scorched earth as a reminder of the unexpected turn of events. Indeed, it’s not every day that a car bottoming out sparks a grass fire during an F1 session, highlighting the unpredictable nature of motorsport.
Strange Fire Incidents in Formula 1: Romain Grosjean’s Bahrain Fireball
In the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix, Haas Formula 1 driver Romain Grosjean experienced a horrifying crash that left fans and fellow drivers in shock. On the opening lap, Grosjean’s car collided with the barriers, causing the chassis to tear in two. The impact triggered a massive fireball, engulfing the car in flames. Fortunately, Grosjean managed to escape from the wreckage with minor injuries, thanks to the swift response of the track marshals and the improved safety measures.
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) conducted an investigation into the incident. Their findings revealed that the fire was caused by a rupture in the fuel tank, which led to the release of fuel and subsequent ignition. As a result, the FIA recommended further safety enhancements to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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